Cleopatra Selene II vs Polemon I of Pontus

Cleopatra Selene II married Juba II, king of Mauretania, in a union arranged by Augustus. The marriage combined the Ptolemaic and Numidian royal lines, creating a powerful client kingdom loyal to Rome. She became queen consort and co-ruler of Mauretania.

Cleopatra Selene II ruled jointly with Juba II, wielding significant influence. She promoted Hellenistic culture and Egyptian traditions in the Mauretanian court. Her rule helped stabilize the region and fostered a blend of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian influences.

Cleopatra Selene II oversaw the construction and beautification of Caesarea (modern Cherchell), the capital of Mauretania. She commissioned buildings, gardens, and a lighthouse modeled after the Pharos of Alexandria. The city became a major cultural and commercial center.

Mark Antony appointed Polemon I as king of Pontus, a client kingdom of Rome. This appointment placed Polemon in a position of power within the Roman sphere of influence in Anatolia.

Polemon I supported Mark Antony against Octavian in the civil war. After Antony's defeat at the Battle of Actium, Polemon's kingdom was spared by Octavian, who confirmed him as king.

Polemon I expanded his kingdom by conquering Colchis on the eastern Black Sea coast. This expansion increased his territory and influence, though it required Roman approval.

Polemon I was killed in battle against the Aspurgiani, a tribe in the Bosporan region. His death ended his reign and led to Roman reorganization of the Pontic kingdom.